As early as the 14th century, stories glorifying the exotic palaces of Indian rulers began to circulate in the West. Even today, they are magical places small towns rather than single buildings, in which the Hindu and Muslim rulers of the subcontinent dispensed their laws and enjoyed their wealth.
The beauty and atmosphere of these palaces is displayed here in the exceptional photographs of Antonio Martinelli, a painter and architect, who enjoyed unrivalled access to the buildings. George Michell, a recognized authority on Indian architecture and art, evokes life within these complexes and describes their many elements: defences; spacious courtyards; temples and mosques; private apartments and service quarters.
The Royal Palaces of India is a superb record of the palaces, which are receiving increasing numbers of visitors each year, living witnesses to a regal aspiration to re-create heaven on earth.
The beauty and atmosphere of these palaces is displayed here in the exceptional photographs of Antonio Martinelli, a painter and architect, who enjoyed unrivalled access to the buildings. George Michell, a recognized authority on Indian architecture and art, evokes life within these complexes and describes their many elements: defences; spacious courtyards; temples and mosques; private apartments and service quarters.
The Royal Palaces of India is a superb record of the palaces, which are receiving increasing numbers of visitors each year, living witnesses to a regal aspiration to re-create heaven on earth.
Extent: 232 pp
Format: Paperback with flaps
Illustrations: 250
Publication date: 1999-03-15
Size: 27.9 x 25.0 cm
ISBN: 9780500279649
Press Reviews
New York Review of Books
Photographic
About the Author
George Michell is an architectural historian, specializing in ancient Indian architecture. Among his many publications are The Royal Palaces of India and Hindu Art and Architecture, both published by Thames & Hudson.
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